Florida’s “Check My Contract” Program: Ensuring Fair and Legal Restoration Agreements After Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Nov. 7, 2024) — After Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Florida residents begin rebuilding homes and businesses, often signing contracts with contractors, restoration specialists, or public adjusters. To help residents avoid fraud and ensure they enter legally sound agreements, the Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS) has launched the “Check My Contract” portal, allowing homeowners to submit repair contracts for review to verify compliance with state law. Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis highlighted the portal at a press conference in Naples, underscoring its role in protecting policyholders and preventing post-storm fraud. “Just a few years ago, Hurricane Ian struck Southwest Florida, leaving residents with the enormous task of rebuilding from that historic storm. With the impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton, I urge policyholders to use this free ‘Check My Contract’ service,” Patronis said. “This portal allows policyholders to submit their repair contracts to DFS. If a contract is illegal or contains questionable terms, DFS will help policyholders understand their options to cancel it. Our fraud investigators can also use this information to uncover any widespread fraud in our communities and hold bad actors accountable.” The Check My Contract program is available for residential and commercial property insurance policyholders across Florida. By submitting a signed contract to DFS, homeowners can receive a comprehensive review to spot potential red flags, such as illegal Assignment of Benefits (AOB) clauses or pricing practices that violate state law. The service is accessible online, and DFS has consumer help desks at offices in affected counties. Insurance Consumer Advocate Tasha Carter joined Patronis in Naples to emphasize the program’s importance, especially as residents grapple with the financial and emotional toll of recovery. “Consumer protection is at the heart of our mission, and CFO Patronis and I are committed to fighting insurance fraud,” Carter said. “Check My Contract gives consumers the tools to verify their contracts, which is crucial during a challenging recovery process. This service also strengthens the Department’s ability to act quickly against bad actors, particularly after a hurricane. I encourage all consumers to take advantage of this free resource.”

A Powerful Tool for Post-Storm Protection

Following hurricanes or other natural disasters, residents may feel pressure to act quickly, signing contracts to secure essential repairs for damage such as water intrusion, roof replacement, and structural restoration. While repairs are urgent, the DFS cautions property owners to verify contract terms. The Check My Contract program reviews three main areas to ensure compliance with Florida’s consumer protection laws:

1. Emergency Regulations and Consumer Rights: Contracts signed in a state of emergency must comply with specific rules, including a right-to-cancel clause. This clause gives consumers time to reconsider their options. DFS reviews contracts to ensure they contain these essential details.
2. Price Fairness and Anti-Gouging Standards: Contractors cannot inflate prices during a declared emergency. DFS reviews terms for any signs of price gouging, confirming that fees align with industry standards and preventing contractors from overcharging for necessary repairs.
3. Assignment of Benefits (AOB) Clauses: AOB clauses, which allow contractors to bill insurance providers directly, can be helpful but are sometimes misused. DFS specialists check that these clauses comply with state law, protecting consumers from unfair terms.

Local Officials Support Efforts to Fight Fraud

Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk strongly supported the initiative, noting the risk of scams in the aftermath of storms. “Collier County has zero tolerance for scam artists targeting our residents following storms. If you suspect fraud or unlicensed activity in your community, report it to my office immediately so it can be investigated, and bad actors can be held accountable,” Rambosk said. “Thank you to CFO Patronis for supporting Southwest Florida and raising awareness on the dangers of post-storm fraud.” Rep. Bob Rommel also highlighted the importance of stopping fraud during the recovery process. “Post-storm fraud can disrupt recovery and leave homeowners on the hook for repair costs. That’s why we have worked closely with CFO Patronis to pass vital reforms to stop bad actors from taking advantage of our citizens following storms. Thank you to the CFO and Sheriff for their efforts to protect residents and ensure Southwest Florida can continue on the road to recovery,” Rommel said.

Accessing “Check My Contract”

Residents can access the Check My Contract service online at myfloridacfo.com or by visiting DFS offices across affected counties for in-person help. The process is straightforward: consumers can upload their signed repair agreements through the DFS website, where contract specialists review them for compliance, pricing, and legality. Following a review, DFS will notify the policyholder of any issues and offer guidance on renegotiating terms if necessary. By launching this portal, DFS aims to strengthen trust within Florida’s restoration industry and prevent the spread of fraud. “Our goal is not only to protect consumers but also to support reputable contractors who follow ethical practices,” Patronis said. “We’re working toward a transparent, cooperative recovery process that benefits everyone.” DFS encourages all Floridians impacted by recent storms to use the Check My Contract service. For further information or to submit a contract, residents can visit myfloridacfo.com or call the DFS hotline at 1-800-DFS-FLORIDA.